Go Local: Best of Bulgaria, Self-Drive

Welcome to Bulgaria! Upon your arrival at Sofia Airport, you'll pick up your rental car and head to your hotel in the city. After checking in, you'll receive a special package filled with useful information, including a map of Bulgaria and vouchers. Spend the rest of the day exploring Sofia at your own pace. Don't miss the stunning St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral, the largest Orthodox cathedral in the country. Optional dinner with folklore and Nestinari dances is available to kickstart your Bulgarian adventure. Overnight in Sofia (or similar).

After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, spend the day exploring Sofia at your own pace. Start with a visit to the National History Museum, which houses a vast collection of Bulgarian artifacts. Then, head to the Boyana Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning medieval wall paintings. If you're a nature lover, take advantage of Sofia's location at the foot of Vitosha Mountain and explore the beautiful trails. Optional private city tour is available for those who wish to delve deeper into Sofia's history. Overnight in Sofia (or similar).

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before setting off for a scenic drive into the Balkan Mountain. Make a stop at the Troyan Monastery, the third largest in Bulgaria, nestled in the idyllic mountain landscape. Continue to Veliko Tarnovo, the medieval capital of Bulgaria, where you can enjoy breathtaking views from the top of Tzarevetz Hill. Wander down the cobbled Samovodska Charshia Street and marvel at the craftsmanship of local artisans. Optional old crafts demonstration is available for those interested. End the day in the quaint village of Arbanassi, where you'll get a glimpse of life in the Bulgarian Middle Ages. Overnight in Veliko Tarnovo (or similar).

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and embark on a picturesque drive to the Black Sea coast. Along the way, visit two UNESCO World Heritage Sites - the Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari and the Madara Rider. These ancient sites will captivate you with their unique art and legends. Continue your journey to Varna, the sea capital of Bulgaria. After checking in at your hotel, take a leisurely stroll through the city center and discover its main attractions. Overnight in Varna (or similar).

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast before setting out to explore Varna. This city is a blend of bustling promenades, serene parks, and fascinating museums. Visit the Cathedral of Varna, a city landmark, and the Archaeological Museum, home to the world's oldest gold treasure. If you prefer, you can spend the day relaxing on one of Varna's beautiful beaches. Optional city tour is available for those who wish to learn more about Varna's history. End the day with a delicious dinner at one of the city's finest restaurants (included). Overnight in Varna (or similar).

After breakfast, embark on a journey to the North Black Sea coast, known for its stunning cliffs and white waters. Visit Cape Kaliakra, a beautiful cape with ancient and medieval fortresses, and Balchik, a romantic town that was once the summer residence of Queen Maria of Romania. Explore the castle and its botanical garden, which boasts one of Europe's largest cactus collections. A professional guide will accompany you on this trip (included). Return to Varna for the night. Overnight in Varna (or similar).

After breakfast, drive south to the 'Pearl' of the Black Sea Coast - the Old Town of Nessebar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through its romantic cobbled streets, explore its 13th-century churches, and step back in time to the days of the ancient Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines. Continue your journey to Sozopol, a charming town where modernity meets antiquity. End the day in Burgas, where you can enjoy a pleasant evening walk along the promenade. Overnight in Burgas (or similar).

After breakfast, set off for a scenic drive to the town of Kazanlak, home to a UNESCO-designated Thracian Tomb dating back to 310 BC. As you're in the Rose Valley, don't miss the chance to visit the Rose Museum and learn about the unique rose production process. If you're visiting in May or June, you might even get to pick a rose from the field! Continue to Plovdiv, the European City of Culture for 2019. Explore the Old Town and visit the Roman Amphitheatre and the Hindlyan House, a beautifully decorated house from the Bulgarian Revival period. Overnight in Plovdiv (or similar).

After breakfast, journey through one of Bulgaria's most picturesque passes, Yundola, and visit the mountain villages of Rila and Pirin. These villages are known for their high-quality honey and milk products. Stop by the village of Dobarsko to visit a unique church with a mural of Jesus Christ in a 'rocket'. Experience rural life at the home of Granny Deshka, where you'll help with household chores and prepare lunch together (included). After a day of memorable moments, head to the famous ski resort town of Bansko for the night. Overnight in Bansko (or similar).

After breakfast, drive to the Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled deep in the mountains. This monastery is a significant symbol of the Bulgarian identity and is known for its impressive architecture and frescoes. After your visit, return to Sofia for your last night in Bulgaria. Overnight in Sofia (or similar).

After a final breakfast, check out from your hotel and drive to Sofia Airport. Return your rental car and catch your flight home, bringing with you unforgettable memories of your Bulgarian adventure.